New approaches in phytopharmacological research

Abstract

The introduction of molecular biological models into phytopharmacology research is essential to get more detailed information on the underlying mechanisms of action of multivalent herbal plant preparations. By using new target directed pharmacological screening methods in combination with clinical trials, it will be possible to find a rational for synergistic effects of plant extract preparations. As shown on some examples, questions of the correct dosages, of dose dependent reversal effects of plant constituents and long-term therapeutic effects of phytopreparations at low doses are waiting to be answered. The elucidation of these phenomena can help to rationalize phytotherapy and to integrate it into an overall concept of modern medicine. © 1999 IUPAC.